Blog Post 5: Reflection on Initial Data Collection
For my ecological field study, I am sampling Athyrium filix-femina abundance by counting individuals growing in 1m² quadrats placed at various distances from Pierard Creek.
Collecting the initial data in Module 3 went smoothly overall, with only a few minor challenges. The uneven terrain around Pierard Creek made it a little tricky to place the quadrats accurately, but this was more of a learning curve than a major issue. I was able to improve at measuring and placing the quadrats as I sampled different areas, making the process more efficient. I think the most important way to ensure accuracy when collecting my data is ensuring that I use a consistent strategy in placing the quadrats for each sample. I will be able to do so in any future data collection after overcoming the learning curve.
The data that I collected was not surprising to me. As expected, the data reflected my initial observations, since I immediately noticed that there were significantly more A. filix-femina individuals growing closer to the creek compared to areas further away. This was mirrored in the data that I collected. Because I had success in collecting data using this strategy, I plan to continue with this approach moving forward, ensuring accurate and reliable data collection by consistent quadrat placement.